Molecular Prevalence of Cyclospora spp. in Tibetan Antelope ( Pantholops hodgsonii ) in China

Abstract

Cyclospora spp. is a globally distributed foodborne intestinal parasite with potential zoonotic risk. The Tibetan antelope (Pantholops hodgsonii), an iconic wildlife species in China, is classified as a national first-class protected animal. However, data on Cyclospora spp. infections in Tibetan antelope remain limited. This study employed polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis targeting the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene of Cyclospora spp. on 503 fecal samples collected from Tibetan antelope in the Tibet Autonomous Region, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, and Qinghai Province. The overall infection rate was 1.2%, with the highest rates observed in Qumarlêb County (4.4%), followed by Qiemo County (3.3%) and Shuanghu County (0.5%). No infections were detected in Shenza, Nima, and Ruoqiang counties. Infection rates were highest in summer (3.3%), followed by autumn (1.2%), with no infections detected in spring. Across sampling years, the highest infection rate was recorded in 2024 (3.3%), followed by 2020 (0.3%), with no infections detected in 2023. Statistical analysis identified sampling region and year as significant factors influencing infection rates. Additionally, six isolates were identified as Cyclospora spp. This study provides the first evidence of Cyclospora spp. infection in Tibetan antelope, expanding its known host range and geographic distribution.